Thousands of residents of Oblogo, Tetegu, Weija and Ashalaja in Ghana have been displaced following the spillage of the Weija Dam.
Reports from the West African country said the spillage was caused by torrential rains over the weekend as they have contributed to the water level in the dam rising above its maximum level of 46 feet to 48 feet.
This has led to authorities of the Ghana Water Company Limited spilling the excess water, which posed a danger to the safety of the dam and residents in adjoining communities.
The Weija Dam, situated on the Densu River is operated by the Ghana Water Company. Prolonged heavy rainfall in the region caused levels of the dam to increase. Normal level is 46.5 feet (14.17 metres) , while maximum operating level is 48 feet (14.63 metres) . Over recent days the level jumped to 49.5 feet (15.09 metres), according to the Ghana Water Company. Four spill gates were opened to safeguard the integrity of the dam, save the dam from collapse and save lives and properties, the Company said.
Homes of homes have been reportedly flooded and residents forced to evacuate areas of Ga South municipality, including Ashalaja, Weija, Oblogo and Tetegu. Local media reported an estimated 1,000 houses flooded and 1,500 people displaced. Disaster officials said around 25 residents were rescued after they became trapped in their homes and emergency teams.
Water supply has been interrupted in some areas as a result of the dam releases and flooding. The Weija Dam supplies about 80 percent of the potable water for the entire city of Accra and surrounding areas.